The Battle of Shanghai was a large urban battle between the Empire of Japan and the Republic of China in the Chinese city of Shanghai during the Second Sino-Japanese War. It lasted from August 13, 1937, to November 26, 1937, and was arguably the single largest and longest battle of the entire war, with it even regarded by some historians as the first battle of World War II. It resulted in the Japanese capturing the city and heavy destruction to the city.
Marines of the Imperial Japanese Navy Special Naval Landing Forces in gas masks prepare for an advance in the streets of Shanghai.
Zhabei on fire
Exterior of Shanghai's Cathay Hotel after an ROC NRA bombing run on August 14, 1937
Japanese troops in the ruins of Shanghai
Iwane Matsui was a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and the commander of the expeditionary force sent to China in 1937. He was convicted of war crimes and executed by the Allies for his involvement in the Nanjing Massacre.
Matsui inspecting the front lines in Shanghai in September 1937
Matsui riding into Nanjing on December 17, 1937
Iwane Matsui, c1930s
Matsui listening to the proceedings of the IMTFE